After cobbling together the numbers to stake claim for a new Government in Jharkhand, JMM legislative body leader Hemant Soren is expected to pay Governor Syed Ahmed a visit on Tuesday.
Congress legislative party leader Rajendra Singh, JMM and RJD legislators and independents extending support to the alliance will accompany him. The decision was taken at a legislative body meeting on Monday at the residence of JMM chief Shibu Soren. Hemant was unanimously authorised to stake claim for Government formation.
“We have sufficient numbers — 44. All of us would converge at the residence of Shibu Soren about 10 am and from there, go to Raj Bhavan. Hemant will carry letters of support from parties and independent MlAs,” said a JMM legislator emerging from the meeting.
It is possible that all MlAs supporting Government formation may not parade before the Governor, leaving the ultimate test of majority for later, on the floor of the House. “If the Governor feels satisfied with the letter of support, he will give him a time to prove majority. It is not compulsory to show headcount at the present,” said a Congress MlA.
The BJP, on the other hand, demanded the Governor make sure of the physical presence of supporting MlAs before inviting Hemant for Government formation, and not believe the letter of support. “We believe there is certain foul play involved and the Governor should ascertain this well in advance,” said BJP State president Ravindra Rai.
The Congress (13), RJD (five) and four independents have already handed over their letters of support. The party also mulled how to handle Nalin Soren and Sita Soren. Both JMM legislators are evading police since arrest warrants were issued against them in separate cases. “Possibly, they will surrender. Nalin is ready to do so. Sita is also being persuaded. Anyway, they will remain in jail without much hardship when Government is in place,” said a JMM leader.
Despite claims, the JMM camp remained in touch with Geeta Koda and Enos Ekka, who are reported to have got assurance about certain conditions before yielding. The MlAs are expected to use the opportunity to press hard till the floor test.